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6T PL7W.S « 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 







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"TUT? A UTT A TOTM^ I : A Farcical Romance in Three J 
I riC AIVl/^ZA^lNO. I w PrxEKO. Seven male 
acters. Costumes, modern 



f 

eeActs. By Arthur *fj 
and five female char-, iAV 
; scenery, an exterior *|* 

f 



and an interior, not at all difficult. This admirable farce is too well known 
through its recent performance by the Lyceum Theatre Company, New York, to 
need description. It is especially recommended to young ladies' schools and 
colleges. (1895.) 

'■#".' W 

W TH E CABINET MINISTER. | i^ff^pSS^&JE S» 

k A 'a ' " — ' and nine female characters, k|j 

Mr Costumes, modern society ; scenery, three interiors. A very amusing piece, in- Mr 

SXi genious in construction, and brilliant in dialogue. (1892.) ^|^ 

^'' DA"N"DV "DICTC I A Farce in Three Acts. By Arthur W. Pixero. \f/ 

^kj isnxyis I x-'iv-iiv* Seven male, four female characters. Costumes, mod- t|j 

Mr " ern ; scenery, two interiors. This very amusing piece Mr 

'kA'/S was another success in the New York and Boston theatres, and has been ex- ^|^ 

Mr tensively played from manuscript by amateurs, for "whom it is in every respect Mr 

Vft/ suited. It provides an unusual number of capital character parts, is very funny, * i'g 

Mr and an excellent acting piece. Plays two hours and a half. (1893.) Mr 

i%"i THF HORRV HOR^F I A Comedy in Three Acts. By Arthur k «|% 

Mr irLC * ■T1V-«M>X n.WIVOIi»J w PrNERO- Ten male, five female char- \ff 

^k'g ' ' acters. Scenery, two interiors and an ex- ^|% 

Mr terior; costumes, modern. This piece is best known in this country through the Mr 



ckg admirable performance of Mr. John Hare, who produced it in all the principal ^|% 

M/ cities. Its story presents a clever satire of false philanthropy, and is full of \ff 

ck'g interest and humor. Well adapted for amateurs, by whom it has been success- £m*A 

Mr fully acted. Plays two hours and a half. (1892.) Mr 

T 
W 



vK T ADY ROIHSTTTFUT I A Pla y -* 1 Four Acts. B y Arthur w. Mf 

\U ^*m* DUUl>!HruU| Pinero. Eight male and seven female char- 

TI. acters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, four 

ili interiors, not easy. A play of powerful sympathetic interest, \ little sombre in 

'IT key, but not unrelieved by humorous touches. (1892.) 



k 



A Confidence Game 



A Comedy in Two Acts 



By EVELYN G. WHITING 



BOSTON 

WALTER H. BAKER & CO 

1900 



A Confidence Game 



CHARACTERS 5667^ 

As originally produced at the New South Church, Boston, Mass., April 

24 and 25, 1895, ky the Unity Club, under the title of 

Vacation Days. 

Grace Leslie, Miss Evelyn G> Whiting 

Who deserves confidence but doesn't always get it, 

Milly Leslie, Miss Ida Metzger 

Her sister, who doesn't always deserve co?ifidence, but has it, 

Maude Winslow, Miss Louise Ulmer 

A coming actress, the victim of misplaced confidence, 

Henry Bronson, Walter R. Whiting 

An alleged dramatic agent and undoubted " confidence ??ia?i," 

Laurie Winslow, Mr. Geo. W. Taylor 

Home from college and not lacking in confidence, 

Bert Lindsay, Mr. Louis Lyon 

Who loses every one's confidence but his own, 

Howard Lindsay, Mr. Adelbert Bliss 

Who loses a good deal more than confidence, 

Nab Em \ Detectives — in strict j Mr. Wm. W. Hanscom 
Grab Em } confidence \ Mr. Edwin F. Porter 



COSTUMES MODERN. 




Copyright, 1900, by Walter H. Baker & Co. 



SECOND OOPV, 

PROPERTIES 



Bert Lindsay. — Mackintosh, with revolver in pocket. 

Howard Lindsay. — Money in yellow envelope, and note 
which Bert left. 

Henry Bronson. — Card, which he gives Maude, revolver, 
and mackintosh, same color as Bert's, with articles in pockets. 

Laurie. — Girl's hat, book, and bottle of perfumery. 

Milly. — Man's hat, and tin horn. 

Maude. — Letter from Howard, hat, coat and jewel-case. 

Grace. — Book and magazine. 



Note. — This piece was originally produced in three acts in- 
stead of two, as in the following : 

SYNOPSIS 

Act I. — In which much is hidden. Scene. Sitting-room in 
Mrs. Winslow's summer residence. Time. Afternoon. 

Act II. — In which complications arise. Scene. Same as 
Act I. Time. Evening. 

Act III. — In which the guilty does his own suffering. Scene, 
Same as in Acts I. and II. Time. Morning. 



A Confidence Game. 



ACT I. 

SCENE. — Sitting-room in the Wins lows' residence. Doors r. 
and l. French window ■, c. Desk and sofa, r. Chimney- 
piece with mirror over it and large armchair, l. * Large 
table, e. Small table R. of window. Time, evening of 
\July 3d. Maude is seated in armchair reading letter. 
Laurie is stretched lazily on sofa reading book. ' At rise 
of curtain there is a slight pause. 

Maude (over letter). That's good ! I was afraid they 
wouldn't come. Laurie. (Laurie does not appear to hear.) 
Laurie, I say, the boys are coming. (Laurie smiles over 
book.) Do you hear? They got mama's letter and are com- 
ing to spend the Fourth. (Very much louder.) Laurie Win- 
slow ! 

Laurie (starting up and slamming book). Yelling again ! 
What do you want now ? You girls are enough to drive a fel- 
low crazy. Everlastingly shrieking about something or other. 

Maude (ignoring his mood). Howard and Bert are coming 
and they'll be here this evening. 

Laurie. What of it ? That is no reason why you should 
take my head off. (Gets up.) I thought I could be quiet in 
here, but you're worse than Grace, and goodness knows she is 
bad enough. I left Milly on Hartwell's Island ; I think she'll 
be glad to see me. (Laurie exit r., but comes back again.) 
There is a man out in the hall asking for you. [Exit, L. 

Bronson (entering r.). Pardon this intrusion. I am ad- 
dressing Miss Winslow ? 

Maude (bowing). You are. 

Bronson. You must excuse abruptness, but my time is 
limited. I called to see you on business. 

Maude. I understand. You are undertaking some chari- 
table work and come to ask for help. Won't you be seated? 



6 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Bronson {taking chair near Maude). Thank you ; you 
are right. I come to ask for help, but not of the kind to 
which you allude. A few months ago I saw you in a very ; 
clever amateur performance. " There," said I to myself, "is 
a born actress. If that girl were on the stage, she would make 
a fortune." 

Maude {deeply interested). Yes 

Bronson. I thought about you a great deal, and last week, 
when one of our summer companies came in, I resolved to 
look you up. They came to me, of course, as I am their agent 
for dramatic business. They are going out again next week, 
and must have some one who is stylish and clever to take the 
part of a city belle. Of course the part is not large and the 
pay is small. Probably you would not get over thirty dollars 
to start with. 

Maude {excitedly). You mean for me to take the part — to 
play with real actresses ? Oh, how I would like it ; but my 
people — they would never consent. 

Bronson. Why need they know at present? You could 
make some excuse for going away to — er — er — visit some one. 
You understand ? Once fairly launched on your career as a 
successful actress and your people would be proud of you. 

Maude. I have always said so. I think I could manage it 
somehow. How soon would you want me ? 

Bronson. At once. That is it will be necessary for you to 
see the manager by to-morrow morning. Will you accept the 
offer? 

Maude. No. Yes. I mean I can't — that is I think I will 
— Oh, I'm sure I don't know. " 

Bronson. In other words, you will accept. If you take 
the ten o'clock train, you will reach New York early in the 
morning. You can see manager Smith at once, and return by 
the next train if you don't care to stay longer. {Takes out 
card.*) Here are the directions, and now I must bid you good- 
evening. {Goes r.) Oh ! by the way, you will have to have 
a few costumes. 

Maude. Costumes ! Why I thought you furnished those. 

Bronson. We do if you wish it, but it will be necessary 
for you to bring a small amount of money with you. 

Maude. But, sir, I have no money of my own. What 
would you call a small amount ? 

Bronson. Let me see — I think you would need about 
thirty-five or forty dollars, 



A CONFIDENCE GAME, J 

Maude. Forty dollars ! You might as well ask for ten 
thousand. Without my parents' knowledge I can do nothing. 
I have about twelve dollars in my purse at present. 

Bronson. This is unfortunate, but — wait a minute — you 
must have something else which is valuable. Jewels, a watch 
or something of the sort. You could let us have them as 
security, and redeem them when you got your salary. 

Maude. Yes, I might do that. I have a very handsome 
necklace. Would you like to see it ? 

Bronson. Perhaps I had better. 

Maude. Very well, I will get it for you. Excuse me just a 
moment. [Exit l. 

Bronson. Little fool ! It beats everything the way these 
stage-struck girls are taken in. A little flattery is all that's 
needed. I wonder how Smith is getting along. If we can get 
those jewels, we'll be doing pretty well. We will skip the town 
to-morrow anyhow. It is getting a little too warm for us in 
these regions. (Going to window c.) Nice place here. By 
Jove, I would like to own it. Mighty fine view too. 

[Exit through window. 

Milly {entering r. and talking over her shoulder to Grace 
as they come down front). You just let me alone, Grace 
Leslie ; I can be cross if I want to and I will. So there ! I 
just guess you'd be cross if Laurie Winslow had played such a 
trick on you. He's as mean and ugly as he can be, and I hate 
him. (Stamping foot.) Didn't I tell you to go away ! 

Grace. Milly, dear, you are unreasonable. I don't see 
why you should be cross with me. What has Laurie been do- 
ing now ? 

Milly. What has he been doing ! He only took me out 
rowing, landed me on Hartwell's Island, and forgot all about 
me. That's what he says, but he didn't forget, he did it on 
purpose, and you just see if I don't get even with him. I was 
there almost two hours. 

Grace. It is too bad. Laurie is a mean fellow. 

Milly. No, he isn't any such thing. He only did it for 
fun, because I talked too much. Now what are you laughing at ? 

Grace. At you, my dear. 

Milly. Well, laugh then 1 Ohoo ! (As she encounters 
Bert who is entering r.) 

Bert. Hello, little one. (Puts arm around Milly and 
walks toward Grace.) Ah, Grace ! I've been looking for 
you. (They shake hands.) 



8 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Grace. Have you ? Has Howard come ? 

Bert. Yes, we are all here now. 

Milly. Good, then we can have some fun. Did you bring 
any fireworks? 

Bert. Lots of them. Cannon -crackers, torpedoes, car- 
tridges, everything. 

Milly. Where are they ? 

Bert. Out in the hall, labeled "please don't handle." 

Milly. Humph ! Who cares ! One hurrah ! Two hur- 
rah ! ! Three hurrah ! ! ! ( Waves hat in air and exit R.) 

Bert {crossing to Grace). What does this mean ? 

Grace. I don't wonder you ask. It means that she is 
wilder than ever. The reaction of a vacation after a year of 
boarding school is too much for her. 

Bert. And your aunt does not mind the noise ? 

Grace. Not a bit. She likes it. 

Bert. That is fortunate considering those cannon-crackers. 
{Turning to Grace with outstretched hands and growing 
serious.*) It has seemed an age till now. Sweetheart, are you 
glad to see me ? 

Grace. Need you ask me that ? {Placing hands in 
Bert's.) Oh ! Bert, if you could only stay. Of course, I 
am having a nice time but it would be so much nicer with you. 
Don't you know it would? (Howard enters l., but seeing 
them, starts to go out again. Grace runs and bars the way.) 
Where were you going to ? 

Howard. Scarcity. 

Grace. Well, that's what I call friendly ! You weren't 
even going to say good-evening. 

Howard. No, ma'am. Don't let me interrupt you. 

Grace. You needn't worry about that. {Pushes him into 
chair.) There, sit down and behave yourself. Tell me what 
you have been doing lately. 

Howard. Nothing. Only skipping to Canada with the 
firm's money. 

Grace. Is that all ? Then you are certainly reforming. 

(Bronson appears at window and listens. He is partly 
hidden by lace curtains.) 

Howard. Yes, I have fifteen hundred dollars in my pocket, 
and it weighs more than my conscience does. I took it to the 
bank, but I was too late ; and I couldn't take it back to the 
store, for I hadn't the key, so I brought it with me. 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. O, 

Bert. You ought not to carry it about with you. You 
might meet with some accident. 

Howard. I know ; but where would it be any safer ? 

Grace. In that little drawer in the desk. You can lock it 
up, and nobody will be the wiser. 

(Grace goes to desk and pulls out drawer. Howard puts 
money in yellow envelope and places it in drawer, locks 
drawer and puts key in his pocket.) 

Howard. Now remember, if the house catches fire, and I 
lose the money, it is all Grace's fault. 

Grace. I guess there is no danger. The court will now 
adjourn. 

(Slips arm through Howard's and Bert's and they all 
exeunt R.) 

Maude {entering with jewel-case ; looks around). Gone, 
tired waiting ! Oh dear ! (Bronson enters window.) Here 
you are ! I thought you had gone. I didn't mean to be so 
long, but some friends of mine have come down from the city, 
and I stopped to welcome them. {Shows necklace.) Do you 
think these will do ? 

Bronson (examining them carefully). Nicely. They are 
really very fine. Be sure to take them with you to-morrow. 

Maude. Yes. 

Bronson. That's right. (Going r.) Good-evening. I 
am sure you will please Mr. Smith. Be sure to tell him I sent 
you. (Bows and exit with an encouraging smile.) 

Maude (sinking onto sofa and clasping hands). At last ! I 
shall become an actress. The actress of the age. 

How t ard (entering r.) . Ah, Maude, you here? 

Maude. No, I'm not. (Howard comes down stage and 
sits beside her.) There are chairs in the room. 

Howard. So I perceive. 

Maude. Then why don't you take one? 

Howard (moving up close to her). I prefer the sofa. 

Maude. Well, keep it then. (Starts up, but is restrained 
by Howard.) 

Howard. Maude, don't be cruel. Come, tell me what 
you have been doing since I saw you last ? 

Milly enters r., and hides under small table near window. 

Maude. Having a glorious time with my many admirers. 



10 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Oh, you needn't laugh ! I am quite a charming young lady, 
if you did but know it. 

Howard. I was never very discerning. 

Maude. Not to notice the impudence of some people, give 
an account of yourself at once. 

Howard. There is nothing to tell, except that I have found 
out something since I was here. 

Maude. And are you going to tell it to me ? 

Howard. Yes. I am in love. 

Maude. How shocking ! Now don't tell me that I am the 
object of your affection, for that would make thirteen times 
that you have done it this month, and thirteen is unlucky. To 
begin with, she must be very beautiful. 

Howard. Oh, she is a darling, and no mistake. 

Maude. To make your romance more touching, she must 
not love you at all. 

Howard. Too confoundedly touching ! Maude, you know 
well enough what brought me down here. 

Maude. With my Sherlock Holmes intellect, I suspect that 
it was a train. 

Howard. Yes, a train of thoughts — about you. Why will 
you persist in making game of my love ? 

Maude. Because, my dear boy, it would be very apt to 
quail under certain circumstances. 

Howard. No. Never ! How can I prove how true it is ? 

Maude. We learned to prove arithmetic at school 

Howard {getting up and walking about). Oh hang arith- 
metic ! Great Caesar, have you any heart ? 

Maude. What a queer question to put to a man of his 
character. < 

Howard. Confound it 

Maude. Don't scowl so. You will spoil your counte- 
nance, which isn't so dreadful under most circumstances. 

Howard. Thanks. My countenance is quite capable of 
taking care of itself. I didn't come down here for nothing 
and I insist upon your talking sensibly for a few minutes. 

Maude. Absolutely insist ? 

Howard. Yes. 

Maude. I am sorry. I was just going to make a very 
foolish confession. 

Howard. What was it ? 

Maude. It was that I — '- — 

Howard. You love me. 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. II 

Maude. That I 

Howard {clasping her hand). Oh say it ! 

Maude. Am going to buy a pug dog next week. (Howard 
exit r. angrily. ) Now he's cross. I wonder why I like to tor- 
ment him so. Poor old fellow, I may go away on the road 
and never see him again. Something might happen to him 
while I was gone. Perhaps he will forget all about me and 
find some other girl and make love to her. Oh dear ! (Puts 
handkerchief to eyes.) 

Milly (getting out from under table, comes down). Hello ! 
What's the matter ? 

Maude (starting). With me? Why nothing. I thought 
you were going out with Laurie. 

Milly. I was, but she won't let me. 
. Maude. Who won't? 

Milly. My respected aunt. 

Maude. Why won't she? 

Milly. Because I went in wading. 

Maude. She objects to that ? 

Milly. Yes ; says I am too old for such things. 

Maude. And you disobeyed her ? 

Milly. No, indeed. You insult me. I never disobey. 
She told me not to take my shoes and stockings off, so I went 
in with them on. Now do you know? 

Maude. You have made the matter quite plain. 

Milly. I'm glad. But what were you crying about? 

Maude. Nonsense, I wasn't crying. 

Milly. Worthy shades of George Washington, I saw you. 

Maude (crossing to Milly and putting her arm around her). 
Milly, don't tell any one, will you ? I was only feeling a little 
blue. Promise you won't tell. 

Milly. I give you my solemn word as a maid of honor not 
to tell that I found you with eyes and nose like a red, red rose. 
There's poetry for you. Oh I'm a genius. 

Maude. You're an angel ! \_Exit through window. 

Milly. You bet I am. I'm a little feathered songster 
straight from heaven. Glad to know I am appreciated. 
(Howard enters r.; Milly walks over to him with her hands 
behind her head and speaks deliberately.) I say, what's Maude 
crying about? 

Howard. Maude crying ! (Aside.) Can it be that she 
does care for me ? Where is she ? 

Milly (pointing through window). Out there, 



12 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Howard. Thanks. You are a little angel ! 

[Exit through window. 

Milly. Angel again. My reputation is extending. I 
thought that would fix him. Did I tell him she was crying ? 
No. I simply asked him a question, that was all. (Looks out 
of window.) Here they come. I must see the rest of this. 
It's too rich to lose. 

(Gets under table again as Howard and Maude enter.) 

Howard. So you are going to let me go away again with- 
out knowing if you care for me? 

Maude. What nonsense ; you know I always liked you, 
Howard. Yes, to my sorrow. If you did not like me so 
plaguy well, you might care for me as I wish you did. 

(Howard goes over to chimney-piece and leans on it disconso- 
lately. Maude looks at him penitently, goes over to him 
and puts her hand o?i his arm.) 

Maude. Perhaps I am not as heartless as I seem. What 
if I did care for you that way ; what if I had all my life ? 

Howard (drawing her to him). Maude ! 

Milly (poking head from under table). Ohoo ! How 
engaging ! (Stands up, holds on to her sides and laughs.) Of 
all the larks. Somebody hold me while I do the grand faint 
act. [Exit, r. 

Howard. Confound the youngster ! 

Maude. We may as well laugh as cry. There is no peace 
for the wicked when that child is awake. 

Milly reenters r. with man 's hat on, dragging 'Laurie with 
girVs hat on. 

Milly (to Laurie). Don't you love me, darling? 

Laurie. I ! Why Charles Augustus Brown ! 

Milly (aside to Laurie). I am Howard. 

Laurie. Oh, Howard, do you love me ? 

Milly. You silly, girl, what do you think about it ? 

Laurie. I never think. Mama says it's a bad habit. 

Milly. How can I prove how true it is ? Have you any 
heart, Great Caesar ! 

Laurie (aside to Milly). What's the matter with you, any- 
how ? What did you bring me in here for ? 

Milly (aside to Laurie poking him with her elbow). Keep 
it up, keep it up ! (Aloud.) Why do you treat me so badly? 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 1 3 

Laurie. I can't treat you at all. I haven't had a cent for 
a week. 

Milly. I think that — oh, I'm so shy I can't say it. 

Laurie. Go on. Fire away. Don't mind me. 

Milly {imitating Maude's manner). I think that — I think 
that — you have a face like a pug dog. Ah, there is some one 
under that table over there. 

Laurie. Oh Howard ! It is a confederate spy. If he 
looks at us he will surely see us. I am desperate, heart-broken, 
wild almost to extraction. I will pack my trunk and take the 
next train for New York. 

Milly {tipping hat over her eyes and striking attitude). So 
you are going away again without letting me propose to. you. 
With my Oliver Wendell Holmes intellect, I suspected that 
you would quail under the circumstances. 

Laurie. I quail on nothing except toast. We cannot live, 
but we can at least die together. ( Takes fancy bottle of per- 
fumery from chimney piece and pretends to dye Milly' s and 
his own hair.) I am dying, love, good-bye. 

(Milly falls on to sofa. Howard chases Laurie off l.) 

Maude (to Milly). I would like to give you a good shak- 
ing, but it is so late I can't spare the time. (Exit r., and re- 
turns with hat and coat ; puts them on as she talks.) You 
nearly made me miss the train with all that nonsense. (Grace 
and Bert enter l.) Well, girls, I'm sorry to leave you. 
Amuse yourselves while I am gone. 

Milly. No, we won't. We can't have a bit of fun with- 
out you. What are you going off for like this, anyway? 
Grace told me something about Cousin Kate, but I couldn't 
make anything out of it, 

Maude. Stupid ! The steamer that Kate is on will reach 
New York to-morrow morning. She was intending to go to 
Aunt Mary's first, but you know she would have an awfully 
dull Fourth there, so I am going up to meet her and bring her 
down here in time for the fireworks. Do you comprehend 
that? 

Milly. Yep. I just wish, though, that Cousin Kate had 
stayed at home where she belonged. 

Maude (aside). I don't. If she had, I could never have 
gotten away. 

Bert (who has been talking with Grace, takes out watch). 
Ten minutes of ten, Maude. You had better be going. 



14 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Maude. I should say so. (She kisses Grace and Milly.) 
Howard has run off somewhere. Bert, will you go to the sta- 
tion with me ? 

Grace. Of course he will. Go ahead, you will be late. 
(To Bert.) Hurry back. 

[Bert nods and he and Maude exeunt r. 

Milly (watching them off). I only wish I w T as going. 
Why didn't I ask her to take me ! 

Grace (seating herself with book). You could run after 
them. 

Milly. Yes, but she wouldn't wait. (After a pause.*) 
Well, this is what I call interesting. Life down here is about 
as exciting as a horse race without any horses. 

Grace. What's the trouble now? Aren't you enjoying 
yourself ? 

Milly. Of course. I always enjoy myself. It's other peo- 
ple whom I don't enjoy. (Comes down and reads over 
Grace's shoulder. Aside.) These novel readers are worse 
than mummies, and some of them are about as antique. I do 
wish that you would get up and move round, or that I was 
taller. It isn't dignified to be small. 

Grace. Why do you want to be tall, Milly ? 

Milly. What does any one want to be tall for ? You talk 
as though I had no right to be anything. I declare between 
you and Laurie there is no living. I haven't had a bit of fun 
to-night. If something doesn't happen soon (flinging herself 
into chair) I shall die ! 

Grace. Don't talk nonsense. What shall I do to amuse you ? 

Milly. That's right, talk as if I was a baby and you were 
a martyr. I don't wonder that you are mama's favorite, you 
act so like a perfect angel ; and that it's always " Milly, child, 
will you ever learn to act like a rational being," or " Dear me, 
Milly, why will you act so? " while she'd let you sit down on 
her best bonnet if it would do you any particular good. No, 
I'm not going to be amused, and that's an end of it. 

Grace (who has been reading during this last speecli). 
Have you finished ? 

Milly. Well, of all the impudence ! 

Grace. That is what I was going to say. 

Milly (good-naturedly). Now, Grace, don't lecture. I 
know I'm hateful, but Laurie has been gone ever so long, and 
I must have some one to fight with. Things wouldn't be so 
stupid if he was here. 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 1 5 

Laurie {entering r.). Right you are. (Hilly rushes and 
hugs him ; he dodges behind table. ,) Handle with care, young- 
ster. That necktie cost me fifteen cents last bargain day. 

Milly. Oh, bother the necktie ! 

Laurie (straightening tie). You've done enough of that 
for two. (To Grace.) How are you, coz? 

Grace. As well as usual. 

Laurie. Bert isn't breaking your heart, then ? (Aside to 
Milly.) Heart is the word, isn't it? 

Milly. What would it be ? Skull ? 

Laurie. Children should be seen and not heard. (Pretends 
to read over Grace's shoulder.) " All day long he carried an 
aching void in his vest pocket. " (To Milly.) Scholar, define 
" aching void." 

Milly. In your case it would mean a headache. 

Laurie. Wrong. Go to the head. Mental Arithmetic. 
If the Blue Hills were on the corner of Elliot street, how much 
would Huyler charge for a tall hat ? The answer will be found 
in next week's directory. 

Milly. Yes, I guess it will. 

Laurie. To any one who solves the problem, we will give, 
free of charge, for the small sum of sixteen dollars, a life-size 
picture of Grover Cleveland, and a box of his baking powder. 
Sister Leslie will now speak upon "Political Economy." 

Grace. I move that she speak upon breath economy. I 
was trying to read. 

Laurie. The situation was also trying. 

Milly (to Grace). I have discovered Laurie's "equivoca- 
tion" in life. Judging from his conversation, he is musically 
inclined. He would make a drummer. 

Laurie. You don't say ! It doesn't agree with your con- 
stitution to stay up late. It makes you rather late with your 
jokes. 

Milly. Is that so ? Well, any one would know you brought 
yours with you. They have the flavor of being " far fetched." 

Laurie. What did you say? Oh, yes, of course, the 
weather has been miserable. Farewell, ladies. I will serenade 
you with my cannon in the morning's early glow. [Exit, r. 

Milly. Oh, I forgot. I was going to bed early, so as to 
get up at two o'clock. Are you going to sit up for Bert? 

Grace. Yes, if I can keep awake. 

Milly. You couldn't for any one else. 

[Exit, L,, throwing kiss. 



1 6 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Grace. Perhaps there's some truth in that. [Going to 
window.') How dark it is ; not a star to be seen. I do wish 
Maude could have stayed at home. Bert's first .night here, too. 
It is too bad. I wonder if any one realizes how much we love 
each other. There, I declare I am getting lonesome already. 
I'll read awhile. {Takes up book ; reads.) Always the same 
old story. Misunderstandings between the hero and the hero- 
ine. In real life we don't have them. Love brings with it 
only divine trust and happiness. Ah, Bert, nothing but death 
can part us — nothing but death. 

(Grace talks lazily, reads, and falls asleep. Bronson en- 
ters through window, c. , goes to desk and lays revolver on 
it. Turns and sees Grace. Starts to go out, but think- 
ing better of it, straightens up and goes boldly down to 
her.) 

Bronson. Pardon me. I was looking for Miss Winslow 

(He sees that she sleeps, goes to doors r. and l. and looks 
out. Comes stealthily back, looks at Grace, crosses to 
desk, unlocks desk drawer, takes out money ; locks drawer 
again, and turning, bends over Grace and puts his face 
close to hers to make sure that she is not feigning sleep. 
Bert appears in doorway, r., but staggers back as he sees 
Bronson bending over Grace in this familiar attitude. 
Grace stirs, and thinking that she is going to wake, Bron- 
son leans forward and blows out the light. The foot- 
lights should also go out. 



CURTAIN. 



ACT II. 

SCENE. — The same. Time, morning of the Fourth of July. 
Howard is standing by chimney-piece. Grace enters, r., 
as the curtain rises. 

Howard. Ah, here you are at last ! I thought you were 
going to get up early. 

Grace. So I was, but I didn't go to bed until late, and 
Laurie kept firing his cannon off under my window until after 
six o'clock. He was up at one. 

Howard. He will get enough of it before the day is over, 
but have you seen anything of Bert ? Milly said you stayed 
up for him last night. 

Grace. Yes, I did ; but I didn't see him, after all. I went 
to sleep in my chair, and when I woke up the lamp had burned 
out, so I knew it was late. I suppose he went to bed without 
coming in here. Why do you ask ? 

Howard. That is singular. He certainly came in here, 
for there is his revolver on the desk ; but his bed hasn't been 
slept in, and no one has seen him this morning. 

Grace. Are you sure he didn't stay out with Laurie ? 

Howard. Laurie says he didn't, but he may be cheating 
me. [Exit, l. 

Laurie (entering, r., shaking fist through doorway). Milly, 
you wretch, if I catch you I'll make you wish I hadn't. 

Grace. See here, what's that you are saying? 

Laurie. I'll fix that sister of yours when I catch her. The 
little minx got me to set the cannon off to wake you up, and 
while I was loading, nearly blew my head off with a cannon- 
cracker. 

Milly (poking head in r.). Polly want a cracker? 
(Laurie chases her and she appears at window chanting.) 
. There was a little boy and a cannon-cracker, if he caught the 
little girl you bet he'd whack her. 

(Laurie goes through the window after her.) 

Howard (entering l., with a letter in his hand). Come here 
a moment, Grace. (Regards her keenly.) Bert has gone 

*7. 



l8 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

away. Can you explain this? {Reading.*) " Something oc- 
curred last night which makes it necessary for me to leave at 
once. Bert." Do you know what he means ? 

Grace. No, of course I don't. Why should I? 

Howard. You had no quarrel with him yesterday ? No 
words of any kind which could send him away ? 

Grace. Why, no. We parted the very best of friends. 
What can he mean ? 

Howard. I haven't the slightest idea. I say, Grace, you 
will keep a close mouth about this until I find out. I must 
invent some motive for his absence. Confound it, he has left 
me in a nice muddle. (Goings., turns abruptly.) You are 
sure that you know nothing — absolutely nothing of this affair ? 

Grace. Nothing beyond what I have told you. (Howard 
exit, l.) He seems to suspect me of being the cause of this. 
Thank goodness, I know I'm not. It can't be anything seri- 
ous. {Laughing.) Of course not. It is something about his 
business ; something which he did not want to write about. 

Bronson {appearing at window). Good-morning, madam, 
I was told that I should find Miss Winslow here. {Enters 
leisurely.) 

Grace. I am very sorry, but Miss Winslow is not at home. 

Bronson. Not at home er — er this is extremely awkward. 
I have come a long distance to see her. When will she be 
home? 

Grace. Not before this evening. You say you have come 
a long distance to see her ? 

Bronson. Yes, rather. I come from er — er {then suddenly) 
—Wells Beach. 

Grace. Wells Beach ! Wells Beach ! Why, yes, of 
course. You are Mr. Islesworth. I have always wanted to 
see you so much. Do sit down and rest yourself. You must 
be very tired. 

Bronson. Thank you. I do feel fatigued. This weather 
is so oppressive. {He throws mackintosh over chair l., and 
sits.) 

Grace. I saw you looked surprised at my knowing you. 

Bronson. Yes, naturally. {Aside.) She came near mak- 
ing my acquaintance a little too soon, but thanks to the lamp I 
escaped. 

Grace. How do you suppose I knew you ? 

Bronson. I really couldn't guess. {Aside.) Unless she 
saw my picture in the Rogues' Gallery. 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 19 

Grace. Why, I am Maude's cousin, and I have heard her 
describe you so often. 

Bronson. Indeed, I feel flattered. {Aside.) I hope she 
liked my looks. 

Grace. She will never forget you. 

Bronson {aside). I don't think she will — or her necklace. 

Grace. She thought you a hero. 

Bronson (aside). Giving Maude away in great style ! 

Grace. I'm sure I do too. 

Bronson (aside). What a brazen girl. Tell a man that to 
his face. 
9 Grace. Why would you never come to be thanked ? 

Bronson (aside). These ready made characters have their 
difficulties ! (Aloud.) Why er — er — er, well er — naturally a 
man doesn't care to be thanked for a little thing like that. 
(Aside.) What have I done? 

Grace (aside). He is very modest ! (Aloud.) But I 
must thank you now. Didn't you feel terribly when you saw 
her going down ? 

Bronson. No words can express what I felt. (Aside.) 
And do now. Where was she going? Down where? 

Grace. Maude couldn't remember much. Will you tell 
me how you saved her ? 

Bronson. I think she can remember much better than I. 
(Aside.) That's true, anyhow. 

Grace. Oh no, indeed. Do tell me. 

Bronson (aside). Great Scott ! I'm in for it. (Aloud.) 
Why I simply went to her and er — er — (Aside.) What the 
deuce shall I say ! (Aloud.) Rescued her. Yes, certainly — 
rescued her. 

Grace (aside). Not a very thrilling description. He is 
rather bashful. (Aloud.) I see that you feel an aversion to 
speaking about'it. 

Bronson. You are right, I do. Let us drop the subject. 

Grace. Certainly, if you wish it. But if Maude had been 
drowned, we should never have gotten over it. 

Bronson (aside). Neither would she. Glad I know what 
it was. (Aloud.) I must enquire for the rest of her family. 
They are all well I trust. 

Grace. Yes, with the exception of Mrs. Winslow. She 
has kept her sitting-room lately with a sprained ankle. She 
doesn't see callers as a rule, but I know she would be, glad to 
see you. If you will come with me I will speak to her, 



20 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Bronson. Certainly. (Aside.*) Confound it, no chance 
to get that revolver yet. I must have it. It has my initials on 
it and I wouldn't lose it for a good deal. It would be a good 
clue for the police. I can't be fooling around here all day. 

[Grace and Bronson exeunt, l. 

Howard enters r., goes to mirror. Milly follows him. 

Milly (aside). Admiring himself ! Well, I suppose he 
has to, as no one else will. 

(Puts up large tin horn and blows a fearful blast close behind 
him. Howard jumps and seizes horn ; Milly laughs.) 

Howard. At your tricks again, eh ? You are too old to be 
amused by a thing like that. 

Milly. It isn't a question of years, it's a question of ears ; 
and besides my heart is young, as some other great person has 
said. 

Howard. I should say it was. (He walks about, looking at 
books, pictures, etc.) 

Milly (after a pause). Your conversation is exceedingly 
interesting. 

Howard. No ? 

Milly. I agree with you. 

Howard (suddenly). Milly, didn't Grace feel very badly 
over Bert's going away ? 

Milly. Arrived at a pumping station ? I'm for Washington 
— who never told a lie. (Aloud.) Feel badly; why no, I 
should say not. He used to tag after her all the time. Grace 
isn't the girl who likes to put people into their places. Natur- 
ally she would be glad when something saved her that trouble. 

Howard. Then you never thought she cared for him ? 

Milly. I'll tell you what — I have a little theory of my 
own. 

Howard (eagerly). Yes? 

Milly. And that is — that it isn't wise to meddle with other 
folks' affairs. 

Grace (entering l.). Have you heard anything more of 
Bert? 

Howard. Not a word. By the way (crossing to desk and 
taking up revolver), I guess I'll take care of this. (To Milly. ) 
You youngsters might get fooling with it. (Takes key fro?n 
pocket and opens drawer.) I feel as if I belonged here, hav- 
ing a drawer of my qwn. (Opens drawer, starts back, his 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 21 

amazement increasing?) Why, what does this mean ! I cer- 
tainly put the money here. Of course I did. I know I did — 
and it's gone ! 

Grace (laughing uneasily). Nonsense; it must be there. 
It has slipped down behind in some way. (Goes to desk a?id 
looks.) 

Howard (desperately). No. I tell you, it's gone. 

Milly. What's gone? Whose was it? 

Grace. Some money of Howard's. Oh, why did I tell 
you to put it here ! 

Milly (getting down on floor and looking under desk). 
But who took it ? It didn't fly through the roof. Who knew 
it was there ? 

Howard. No one but Grace and I and — Bert. 

Milly. Bert ! He knows — he is playing a trick on you. 

(Howard and Grace exchange glances. Grace rushes 
over to Milly and speaks almost fiercely.) 

Grace. Milly Leslie, don't you dare to say that again. 
Bert knows nothing about the money; not a thing. Don't 
mention his name in connection with it. You don't know 
what you are saying. 

(Howard puts hands to his head and exit, l.) 

Milly. I shouldn't think you did either. I'm not going 
to help hunt for the old money. It's all the thanks I get. 

{Exit, l. 

Grace. Oh no, no, no ! It can't be that, but the letter — 
the letter. I won't doubt him ; I won't doubt him. Did he 
ever do anything dishonorable in his whole life? No, no. 
Never ! never ! never ! And yet — and yet — Oh Bert ! 

(Grace sinks into chair and covers her face with her hands. 
Bert enters window and stands regarding her for a mo- 
ment before he speaks.) 

Bert. Grace. 

Grace (rushing up to him). Bert ! Thank Heaven ! 

Bert (turning coldly away from her). Then you are glad 
to see me ! I should hardly expect it under the circumstances. 
Grace (softening a little), I thought perhaps I acted hastily last 
night. 

(He throws his mackintosh on to chair over Bronson's. 
Bert's falls onto floor back of chair. 



22 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

Grace. I knew it. It was the impulse of a moment. It 
was not your better self. No one but Howard and I will ever 
know of this ; you may trust us to keep it secret. Oh, Bert, 
let this be a lesson to you. No one can be happy through dis- 
honesty. The reaction always comes. 

Bert. You admit, then, that you were dishonest with me 
— that you led me to believe you cared for me while you were 
meeting this man whom you really loved, and, no doubt, 
smiling over my affection for you? If the reaction has come I 
am glad. 

Grace (aside) . He pretends to misunderstand me. {Aloud. ) 
Why do you accuse me of things of which you know I am in- 
nocent? I have met no man, I have loved no one but you. 
Explain your meaning. 

Bert. There is no need of my doing that. You deny 
flatly what I saw with my own eyes. I came back for an ex- 
planation. This is sufficient. All I can do is to leave you 
again, once and forever. {Starts up and puts on Bronson's 
mackintosh.) 

Grace. What do you mean ! Are you going away again 
without putting the money back ? Have you no love for your 
brother ! Will you disgrace us all ! 

Bert {angrily). Disgrace ! 

Grace. Yes. I didn't mean to be unkind to you but you 
force me to it. We found that the money was gone from the 
desk ; we knew that you left last night, and besides your own 
letter condemned you. 

Bert. What, the money gone that belonged to the firm ! 
{Looks thoughtful, then turns upon Grace. ) So, they say I 
stole it, do they? Grace Leslie, you know just as well as I do 
who took that money ; but — I understand — you can't betray 
the man you love. 

Grace {aside). He taunts me with it. 

Bert. But surely you would not let an innocent man suffer 
for his crime. Say that you saw the man rob the desk, but 
dared not move to prevent it. Do not describe him correctly 
and he will go free. Do you see what I mean ? 

Grace. Oh, yes, I see. {Aside.) He knows I was asleep, 
but he wants to make me lie for him. {Aloud.) What shall 
I do ? For you I would do almost anything, but not this, not 
this. I should get mixed up, indeed I would. I am not in the 
habit of deceiving. I should betray you in the end. 

Bert. Great Heavens ! what a woman I have been loving ! 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 23 

You refuse to help me, knowing that I cannot answer this 
charge — that everything is against me. I shall go back to the 
city at once. If I am to be arrested I would rather 

Grace. Don't ! 

Bert. It were done in my own house. 

Grace (crossing to desk). Wait a minute. {Takes out re- 
volver.) This is the only evidence. Take it. 

Bert {taking revolver, examines it and unloads it). Where 
did you find this ? 

Grace. On the desk, where you left it. 

Howard, Laurie and Milly enter, r. At sight of Bert 
they all stop and exclaim. 

Howard. So you are back again. I hope you will tell us 
now what " occurred last night." 

Bert. I will. {Aside.) I shall tell everything and clear 
myself. I have been duped too long. God knows I love her, 
but I love my honor more. {Aloud.) Last night when I 
came into this room I expected to find Grace here. I found 
her. She was sitting in that chair and bending over her in a 
very affectionate attitude was a man whom I had never seen 
before. 

Grace {aside). He is only making things worse. I can- 
not help him. 

Howard. Go on. 

Bert. Unconsciously I must have made some sound, for 
afraid of being discovered in their secret meeting, the man 
leaned forward and blew out the light. I left, but thinking 
that perhaps I had acted hastily in not waiting for some ex- 
planation, I returned and was met with the charge of robbery. 
This revolver is the evidence against me. 

Howard. Yes. If you didn't come into the room last 
night, how did you happen to leave that here ? 

Bert. That is simple enough. It is not my revolver. 
{Gives it to Grace.) You have made a slight mistake. You 
must give it to your friend of last evening, and tell him for me, not 
to have his initials on another one. You see they are not 
A. L. but H. B. instead. 

(All crowd around Bert.) 

Howard. By Jove, that's so! but 

Bert {putting hand into mackintosh pocket). I have mine 
with me. 



24 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

{Pulls out envelope which contained money when Howard 
put it in drawer. Bert stares at it in amazement. 
Howard starts forward?) 

Howard. The envelope ! 

(Bert tears off mackintosh and flinging it on floor, confronts 
Grace.) 

Bert. So this is your work, is it ? Did you aim at con- 
victing me, or is it only a plot to shield some one else ? Fool, 
fool that I was, not to see it. You have done well. Not 
satisfied with accusing me of the crime, you place the evi- 
dence in my own pocket and force me to convict myself. 
{Picks up mackintosh in a perfect frenzy.*) I suppose I shall 
find the money here, too. {Pulls out numerous articles.') 
Wait a minute, this is not my coat. ( Glances around and 
finds his own on floor where it has fallen. He goes through 
pocket and brings out revolver.) Here ! here ! just as I told 
you ! Whose is this other coat ? 

Grace. Mr. Islesworth's. The man who saved Maude's 
life. How could he know anything about the money ? 

Bert. If I am not very much mistaken he and H. B. are 
the same man. Grace, concealment is useless. Confess your 
part in this affair. 

Grace. Oh, my head is bursting ! You know I was 
asleep 

Bert. Asleep ! 

Maude {entering window with two detectives). Ah, chil- 
dren all here ! 

Milly. Hello ! what brought you back so soon 

Maude. Unforeseen difficulties. When I left here last night, 
I intended not only to meet Cousin Kate, but to see a manager 
of a theatrical troupe to procure a situation. On the train be- 
tween here and Perrin, I learned that the agent to whom I was 
going was a fraud, and had been arrested for getting girls to 
advance money for costumes and then clearing out. 

Laurie. Good enough for you ! Serves you right. 

Maude. So I concluded to leave Cousin Kate alone, and 
took the next train back. 

Milly. Oh, I'm so glad ! We've been having the most 
terrible time. Bert says that Grace 

(Laurie puts hand over Milly's mouth.) 



A CONFIDENCE GAME. 25 

Maude. In the station I overheard these gentlemen {indi- 
cating detectives} asking for information of the Mr. Bronson 
who had interviewed me. I told them he had been in this 
vicinity, and they came down with me. 

Bronson enters l. ; sees his revolver on chimney-piece. Group 
stands back to him. Bert, who is well tip stage, turns in 
time to see Bronson conceal revolver. 

Bert (aside). The same ! 

Maude {seeing Bronson ; excitedly). There he is ! 

(Detectives seize Bronson as he tries to escape.) 

Nab Em. Bronson, you are wanted for burglary, swindling 
. and blackmail. Don't make any fuss now. 

Grab Em. You are caught in your own trap, my man. 
Laurie. Make him hand over the money. 
Nab Em. Certainly. (To Bronson.) Hand over that 
money, and don't make any fuss about it. 

(Bronson takes out money. Detectives give it to Howard.) 

Howard (shaking hands with Bert). Forgive me, old fel- 
low, and call it square. 

Maude (who has been talking with Grace, comes down 
front). I hear that you have been passing as Mr. Islesworth. 
Your resources are certainly numerous. I am very sorry that I 
shall not be able to join your company, and I fear I shall never 
become the brilliant actress you predicted, but neither shall I 
lose my necklace through your kindness. 

Milly (coming down). Mr. Swindler, if you are ever lucky 
enough to get out of jail, don't steal where it is likely to create 
family disturbances. 

Bronson (glaring at Milly, and turning to Bert). You 
are a nice appearing fellow, but you are the biggest fool I ever 
saw. Take my advice ; if you want to be happy with that 
young woman (pointing at Grace), don't jump at conclusions; 
and if she wants to be happy with you, she mustn't suspect 
you of all kinds of things the minute your back is turned. 
(Steps back suddenly and pulls revolver.) And now I'll thank 
you to remain where you are. 

(Bronson backs toward window. Bert is stationed up 
stage, and when Bronson reaches him, Bert springs at 



26 A CONFIDENCE GAME. 

him. Bronson fires revolver, but it is unloaded, and 
Bert wrenches it from him. Detectives seize Bronson 
up c. All watch struggle. Positions : Milly on table, R. 
Laurie back of her. Grace and Bert, l. Maude atid 
Howard down front. The detectives, with Bronson 
struggling between them, up c.) 



CURTAIN. 



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belong, and while strongly dramatic, and intensely interesting is not suited for 
amateur performance. It is recommended for Reading Clubs. (1895.) 

TTTT7 PP fYJTT 1C A TF I A Play in Four Acts. Bv Arthur W. Pine- 
1 ■ rLC * * rsAJr LsXVJfX 1 LZ.* ro# seven male and five female characters. 

-" Scenery, three interiors, rather elaborate; 

costumes, modern. This is a piece of serious interest, powerfully dramatic in 
movement, and tragic in its event. An admirable play, but not suited for ama- 
teur performance. (1892.) 

A Farce in Three Acts. By Arthur 
W. Pinero. Nine male, seven fe- 
1 male characters. Costumes, mod- 
em : scenery, three interiors, easily arranged. . This ingenious and laughable 
farce was played by Miss liosina Yokes during her last season in America with 
great success.' Its plot is amusing, its action rapid and full of incident, its dia- 
logue brilliant, and its scheme of character especially rich in quaint and humor- 
ous types. The Hon. VereQueckett and Peggy are especially strong. The piece 
is in all respects suitable for amateurs. (1894.) 



THE SCHOOLMISTRESS. 



THE SECOND 
; MRS. TANQUERAY. 



f 



A Play in Four Acts. By Arthur "W. 
Pinero. Eight male and five female char- 
acters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, three 
interiors. This well-known and powerful 
play is not well suited for amateur per- 
formance. It is offered to Mr. Pinero's admirers among the reading public in 
answer to the demand which its wide discussion as an acted play has created. 
(1894.) Also in Cloth, $1.00. 



SWEET LAVENDER. 



A Comedy in Three Acts.. By Arthur 
W. Pinero. Seven male and four female 

' characters. Scene, a single interior, the 

same for all three acts: costumes, modern and fashionable. This well known 
and popular piece is admirably suited to amateur players, by whom it has been 
often given during the last few years. Its story is strongly sympathetic, and its 
comedy interest abundant and strong. (1893.) 



THE TIMES. I 



THE WEAKER SEX. 



A Comedy in Four Acts. By Arthur W. Ptnero. Six 

male and seven female characters. Scene, a single ele- 

— ; gant interior ; costumes, modern and fashionable. An 

entertaining piece, of strong dramatic interest and admirable satirical humor. 

(1892.) 

A Comedy in Three Acts. By Arthur 
. W. Ptnero. Eight male and eight female 
' characters. Costumes, modern ; scenery, 
two interiors, not difficult. This very amusing comedy was a popular feature of 
the renertoire of Mr. and Mrs. Kendal in this country. It presents a plot of 
strong dramatic interest, and its incidental satire of" Woman's Rights" em- 
ploys some admirably humorous characters, and inspires many very clever lines. 
Its leading characters are unusually even in strength and prominence, which 
makes it a very satisfactory piece for amateurs. (1894.) 



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LIBRARY OF CONGRESS 

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NEW OPERETTAS 1 ^918 ™ ™ i # 



EDITH'S DREAM. 

an ©peretta for CJjttoretu 

Words by MARGARET FEZANDIE and EDGAR MORETTE. 
Music by EUGENE FEZANDIE, Jr. 



Eleven characters, girls and boys, or all girls, as preferred ; ten or more addi- 
tional for chorus. Scenery unnecessary; costumes, pretty and fanciful, but 
easily arranged at home. This admirable little piece is printed complete with 
music. It is very tuneful and gracefully imagined, and is strongly recommended 
for private theatricals or for schools. It is particularly well suited for the latter 
use, as it deals whimsically with the question of youthful study, inculcating, 
however, an excellent moral. 



Price 



35 cents. 



ODD OPERASHEVEN TIDE. 

A Collection of Short and Simple Musical 
Entertainments for Children. 

By MRS. G. N. BORDMAN. 



This collection provides a simple operetta, a fairy opera, a picturesque motion 
song, a quaint musical pantomime, a pretty musical sketch, and two original 
humorous recitations for children, complete, with all the music, and full instruc- 
tions for performance. The music is tuneful and simple, and is specially written 
with the tastes and limitations of children in view. The solos are easily learned 
and sung, and all the choruses are written for voices in unison. The collection 
is strongly recommended for its simplicity and perfect practicability. Neither 
stage nor scenery is demanded, nor any other requirements that caiinot be met 
without trouble by the equipment of the ordinary hall or church vestry, and the 
zeal of the most economical committee of arrangements. 



Price 



CONTENTS. 



50 cents. 



A Glimpse of the Brownies. A 

M usical Sketch for Children. Any 
number of boys. 

Market Day. An Operetta for Young 
People. Seven speaking parts and 
chorus. 

Queen Flora's Day Dream, An 

Operetta for Children. Six speak- 
ing parts and chorus. 



The Boating: Party. A Musical 
Sketch for Little Children. Thirty 
boys and girls. 

Six Uttle Grandmas. A Musical 
Pantomime for very Little Children. 
Six very little girls. 

Jirnmy Crow. A Recitation for a 
Little Girl. 

A House in the Moon. A Recita- 
tion for a Child. 



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